Zygomatic implants are extra-long dental implants anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma) instead of the upper jawbone. They’re used when severe bone loss in the upper jaw rules out conventional implants. Because the cheekbone is dense and strong, zygomatic implants can often support fixed teeth without the bone grafting or sinus lifts that would otherwise take many months.
Who are zygomatic implants for?
Zygomatic implants may be the answer if you:
- Have been told you don’t have enough bone for implants
- Have severe bone loss in the upper jaw from long-term tooth loss or denture wear
- Have had failed bone grafts or failed implants
- Want to avoid bone grafting and a long wait before getting fixed teeth
- Have struggled with an upper denture that won’t stay in place
Zygomatic implants are used only in the upper jaw.
How zygomatic implants differ from regular implants
| Regular implants | Zygomatic implants | |
|---|---|---|
| Anchored in | Upper jawbone | Cheekbone (zygoma) |
| Length | Roughly 8 to 15 mm | Much longer, reaching up into the cheekbone |
| Bone grafting needed with severe bone loss | Often | Usually not |
| Treatment time with severe bone loss | Often 9 to 12+ months including grafting | Usually shorter |
| Complexity | Routine | Advanced, needs additional training |
Treatment options
- Zygomatic plus conventional implants. Two zygomatic implants at the back, combined with regular implants at the front where some bone remains.
- Quad zygoma. Four zygomatic implants, two on each side, used when there’s very little bone anywhere in the upper jaw.
In both cases, the implants support a fixed full-arch bridge, similar to All-on-X.
The zygomatic implant process
- Consultation and 3D CT scan to map your cheekbones, sinuses and remaining bone in detail.
- Surgery under general anaesthetic or sedation. Melrose Advanced Dentistry provides in-house sedation for all surgical and implant procedures.
- Temporary fixed teeth, often fitted soon after surgery because zygomatic implants are very stable.
- Healing over several months while the implants fuse with the bone.
- Final bridge, custom-made and fitted once healing is complete.
Is it safe?
Zygomatic implants are a well-established treatment with high success rates reported in published studies, when placed by experienced surgeons with careful 3D planning. As with any surgery, there are risks, including sinus infections, gum irritation around the implants and, rarely, nerve or eye-area complications. Your surgeon will discuss these with you in detail.
Cost and medical aid
Zygomatic implant treatment at Melrose Advanced Dentistry costs R18000. The cost depends on the number of zygomatic and conventional implants needed and the type of final bridge. Because it often avoids bone grafting and extra surgeries, the total can compare well with a grafting-based approach.
We accept medical aid for all surgical procedures done under general anaesthetic and claim directly from your medical aid for all implant and surgical procedures. Check your plan’s benefits for how much it covers.
Frequently asked questions
Do zygomatic implants hurt? The surgery is done under general anaesthetic or sedation. Expect swelling and bruising for a week or two afterwards.
How long do zygomatic implants last? With good care and regular check-ups, they’re designed to last many years, like other implants.
Can I get zygomatic implants in the lower jaw? No. They’re anchored in the cheekbone, so they’re only used for the upper jaw.
Will I leave with teeth? In many cases, yes. A fixed temporary bridge is often fitted soon after surgery.
Told you can’t have implants? Book a zygomatic implant consultation at Melrose Advanced Dentistry in Melrose, Johannesburg: call 072 200 1774 or visit advanced-dentistry.co.za.